ABC nabs Dr Who

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Dr Who fans have cause for celebration after the ABC
snapped up the rights to the new series of the hit British sci-fi
show.

The broadcaster today announced it would screen the latest
series of the popular program from mid May.

Doctor Who first aired on the BBC in 1963 with the last
episode screening in 1989.

The latest series made a triumphant return to British screens
last week, attracting a television audience of more than 10.5
million fans.

Previous series of Doctor Who aired on the ABC but the
new series was yet to be acquired by an Australian broadcaster up
until now.

"This is Doctor Who, 21st century-style, and it most
definitely will appeal to people who are new to the Doctor
Who phenomenon, as well as long-term fans," said ABC's Head of
Programming Marena Manzoufas.

"I am in no doubt that a whole new Australian audience will be
attracted to the series."

"Doctor Who is one of the most significant BBC dramas of
the year," said BBC Worldwide's Head of Sales for Australasia,
Julie Dowding.

"It's the ultimate adventure series with the ultimate cast.
We're very happy that it's come to earth in Australia."

The new series stars Christopher Eccleston as Doctor Who
while singer Billie Piper plays his young assistant, Rose
Tyler.